Man Dies in Kenya Cell After Arrest Over Online Posts

Albert Ojwang died in police custody after his arrest for a social media post. His death has incited outrage and calls for accountability from supporters and rights groups, including Amnesty International. The incident raises issues of ongoing police brutality in Kenya, as previous protests have resulted in numerous fatalities and arrests of dissenters.

Tragedy struck in Kenya as a man, Albert Ojwang, tragically died in police custody after his arrest for an alleged “false publication” on social media. The disturbing news, stated by local police on Sunday, highlights ongoing tensions as the country nears the anniversary of violent protests against rising taxes and government corruption. Human rights advocates, including Amnesty International, quickly condemned the situation, pressing for immediate accountability.

According to police spokespeople, Ojwang allegedly incurred head injuries after slamming his head against a wall while in a cell. Authorities claimed that officers on duty took prompt action by transporting him to Mbagathi Hospital, but he was declared dead upon arrival. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) confirmed it has commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death, which many fear are part of a broader pattern of police violence.

Following Ojwang’s death, Amnesty International voiced strong concerns, emphasizing that this incident necessitates a thorough and independent inquiry. Observers point out that security forces in Kenya have been implicated in violent repression, with reports indicating at least 60 fatalities during protests in 2024, raising alarm on human rights practices in the country.

The public outcry has been palpable, especially among Ojwang’s supporters on social media. Prominent journalist Lynn Ngugi took to X to express her anger, stating, “We demand answers. This death cannot be swept under the rug. How many more young lives must we lose to this rotten system?” The calls for transparency reflect the growing frustration with what many perceive as a lack of accountability in the actions of law enforcement.

In a related incident, just days prior, Rose Njeri, a Kenyan software developer, was arrested under cybercrime laws for creating a platform aimed at organizing opposition to a pending finance bill. Her arrest adds to the concerning climate where individuals expressing dissent face increasing risks. The cumulative impact of these events paints a daunting picture of the current state of civil liberties and the urgent need for police reform in Kenya.

The death of Albert Ojwang in police custody has drawn significant public outrage and condemnation from rights groups, underlining serious allegations of police brutality in Kenya. As investigations unfold, calls for reform grow louder, emphasizing the urgent need for a system that protects citizens rather than endangers them. The situation reflects a broader climate of fear surrounding dissent in the country, raising critical questions about civil liberties going forward.

Original Source: www.bssnews.net